Ever wondered if you and your offspring, parent, sibling or best buddy could find some quality time on the golf course?  Pair up in July when Kentucky State Parks make it well worth the experiment by participating in the Professional Golf Association’s Play Golf America promotion.

            From July 6-31, at any of the 18 park courses, players18-years of age or younger may play a free round and smack a free bucket of balls on the driving range when accompanied by a paying adult (carts not included). 

            “Golf is absolutely family friendly,” said Commissioner Gerry van der Meer, of the Kentucky Department of Parks.  “Novice or experienced duffer, this special is a nice deal and a neat way to introduce kids to golf, build the players of tomorrow and create memories of a lifetime,” he said.  “Kentucky State Parks have a time-honored relationship with golf and top-notch courses.  The entire family can plan a weekend getaway, combination golf/camping trip and loads of other outdoor adventures.”

Six of the park system’s golf courses have been recognized over the past several years as “bests” by Golf Digest and Golfweek Magazine.  Honors include most affordable, best place to play and best course distinction.  Mineral Mound State Park near Eddyville; Hidden Cove at Grayson Lake State Park in Olive Hill; Yatesville Lake in Louisa; Dale Hollow Lake near Burkesville; Wasioto Winds at Pine Mountain State Resort Park near Pineville; and My Old Kentucky Home State Park in Bardstown all got a thumbs up from the publications.

“The recognition shows what quality play is available anywhere in the state,” van der Meer added.  “Teeing off at any of them is a great golf value, convenient and in July, an even better deal.”

          Additional park golf packages make play a sweet proposition other times of the year. The “Chip Shot”  includes lodge accommodations and 18 holes of golf with cart for only $79.  The all-inclusive Tee’s and Zzz’s package includes overnight lodging, breakfast and dinner at the lodge restaurant, 18 holes of golf with a cart, preferred tee times and a complimentary gift card redeemable at any park, pro shop or gift shop. The price starts at $109 per person, per night, based on double occupancy and are available from April 1 to Oct. 31. Reservations are subject to availability and prices do not include appropriate taxes.

            For more information about  any of the 51 Kentucky State Parks and historic sites, golf options including the State Parks Golf Trail, and other activities and events, go to the website at www.parks.ky.gov or call toll free 1-800-255-PARK.

Kentucky State Parks are made up of 51 state parks plus one that is shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, operates 52 parks with lodges, campgrounds, swimming and restaurants.   Each year, Kentucky parks draw millions of visitors and generate hundreds of millions for Kentucky’s economy but admission and parking are always free.

 For more information about amenities, events and other aspects of KySP, visit the website at http://www.parks.ky.gov